5-Minute Pilates Ab Workout
Strengthen Your Core With This 5-Minute Bodyweight Pilates Ab Workout From Isa Welly
Pilates is a low-impact workout, but it always manages to challenge us and make our muscles shake throughout and after the workout. We know a strong core is important to every movement we do, from walking, to picking up objects, to running. And the best way to strengthen those muscles is by incorporating core-strengthening exercises into your workout routine and being consistent with them.
If you aren't sure where to start, we've got this superquick Pilates ab workout created by Isa Welly, a Stott-certified Pilates instructor and wellness coach. It looks easy, but this workout is going to have you shaking as you go through each move. You may be tempted to move fast to get it done with, but make sure to move slowly and with control to reap the benefits.
Isa Welly's 5-Minute, Ab-Strengthening Pilates Workout
Equipment needed: a yoga mat or a soft surface
Directions: Before getting started, warm up with pelvic tilts, Cat Cow, and Child's Pose, Welly said.
You can do this workout alone or add it to the end of a workout (to ensure your muscles are warm) for an extra push. Perform each exercise for one minute, moving slowly and with control. Repeat the ab routine for one round if you're adding it to the end of a workout or two times if you're doing it as a stand-alone workout. Don't forget to cool down once you've finished; Welly suggested doing Child's Pose, spinal waves, and Upward Facing Dog.
- Tabletop: hold for one minute
- Cycling: repeat for one minute
- Hip raise: repeat for one minute
- Opening legs down and back up with arms: repeat for one minute
- Four-point kneeling plank prep: hold for one minute
